Modular Seal Support Bracket Configuration for Industrial Piping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seal support systems for mechanical seals are complex and inflexible, requiring numerous custom configurations to accommodate different industrial applications, which complicates the design and installation process, especially in industries like Oil and Gas with stringent standards and customer-specific requirements.
Innovation Solution
A modular seal support system featuring a stand with fixed brackets at predetermined intervals for securing various components, including differently sized vessels and pipework elements, allowing for multiple configurations such as butt and socket welded flanges, to accommodate diverse industrial needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional seal support systems are designed to accommodate different industrial applications, then the system can meet diverse customer requirements, but the design and installation process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The seal support system is divided into modular components including a stand, multiple brackets with different configurations, and interchangeable sealing devices. Each bracket can be independently selected and positioned to meet specific application requirements, transforming a complex custom design process into a modular assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand with multiple brackets serves as a universal base structure that can accommodate various types of sealing devices and configurations. The brackets are designed with universal mounting capabilities for different pipe sizes and orientations, allowing one system to fulfill multiple application requirements without redesign.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom configurations are created for each industrial application, then customer-specific requirements are met, but the number of parts and configuration time increases
Solution Approach 1:
A standardized set of brackets with universal mounting features is provided, where each bracket type can serve multiple configuration purposes. The same bracket design can accommodate different pipe diameters and orientations through adjustable positioning, reducing the need for multiple specialized parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows smaller components to be nested within or attached to larger structural elements. Brackets are mounted on the stand in a hierarchical arrangement, and sealing devices are subsequently attached to the brackets, creating a nested configuration that minimizes the total number of discrete parts.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bracket configurations are provided on the stand, then diverse component arrangements can be accommodated, but the initial system design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Different bracket configurations are designed as separate, standardized modules that can be independently manufactured and then assembled on the stand. This segmentation allows each bracket type to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system simplicity through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Each bracket is designed with specific local characteristics (such as mounting hole patterns, arm lengths, or attachment mechanisms) tailored to its intended positioning and function, while the overall bracket design follows a consistent standardized pattern. This allows diverse configurations to be achieved through localized variations rather than complete redesigns.
Data Source
AI summary
A seal support system, or a kit therefor, for use with a sealing device to seal a piece of industrial equipment, includes a stand with fixed support elements for accommodating selected functional components with different sizes of components being accommodated by differently sized pipework elements. The stand has one or more substantially fixed brackets with each bracket having a component securing device at predetermined longitudinal space intervals.